The Institute for Translational Sciences

Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Research Design (BERD)

The Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Research Design resource supports researchers in translational science by providing expertise in the conduct, design, analysis and interpretation of clinically relevant studies. Our experts play a critical role in comprehensive study design and statistical analysis as well as interpretation and dissemination of ethical, reproducible, and high-quality clinical and translational research. We have experience across the translational research continuum, with particular expertise in bioinformatics, patient-centered outcomes research/ comparative effectiveness research (PCOR/CER), large database analysis, clinical trials, data mining, and network analysis. Our overarching objective is to provide team-based collaboration and consultation on research design and analyses, training and mentoring for faculty and fellows, innovative methodological approaches to translational research, and collaborative opportunities. To accomplish this objective, our experts: 1) Provide efficient access to biostatistical and research design consultation; 2) Provide rigorous training and mentoring in biostatistics and research design; and 3) Develop innovative tools and methods to address barriers in clinical and translational research.

The Core consists of two teams with distinct expertise and functions: a Design and Biostatistics Team, and a Data Management Team. The Design and Biostatistics Team provides a team of biostatisticians and epidemiologists to implement optimal study designs based on state-of-the-art statistical methods, by aiding in the design of clinical experiments to ensure adequate power and precision, and in the use of appropriate statistical models to analyze translational projects. The Data Management Team develops special-purpose data files for capture of clinical study forms and information from various sources, including electronic health records from Epic, for statistical analyses.